Media statement | 14 December 2006

Proposed changes to Frontal Impact Rule released for comment

Land Transport NZ is inviting public comment on proposed changes aimed at streamlining the frontal impact compliance process for classic cars, motor sport vehicles and individual vehicles imported by immigrants and returning residents.

The proposed changesare needed to improve the compliance system for these vehicles, which currently relies on a time-consuming exemption process. The Frontal Impact Amendment Rule (2007) would allow these vehicles to be eligible for entry certification without the need for exemptions, subject to their meeting specified conditions.

The draft rule also proposes to bring New Zealand’s frontal impact rules for passenger vehicles over 2.5 tonnes into line with those of Europe, Australia and Japan.

The original Frontal Impact Rule came into force in April 2002, requiring all passenger vehicles (MA Class) entering New Zealand to comply with an approved frontal impact standard. Class MB (forward control passenger vehicles) and Class MC (off-road passenger vehicles) manufactured on or after 1 October 2003 must also comply with an approved frontal impact standard.  

Since the original rule came into force, individual exemptions have been required for vehicles in the categories identified above.

For more information on the draft Frontal Impact Amendment Rule, including submission forms and an overview of the rule, go to www.landtransport.govt.nz/consultation/frontal-impact. The deadline for submissions is 9 February 2007.

For more information:
Andy Knackstedt
Media Manager, Land Transport New Zealand
(04) 931-8829  or  0212 763 222